Paeoniflorin Inhibits Mesangial Cell Proliferation and Inflammatory Response in Rats With Mesangial Proliferative Glomerulonephritis Through PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β Pathway

The Traditional Applications, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, Quality Control and Safety of Paeoniae Radix Alba: A Review

Paeoniae Radix Alba (PRA, called Baishao in China) is the dried root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. In clinical practice, PRA has been used to treat cardiovascular disease, menstrual disorders, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and liver disease, among other conditions. This review provides a systematic summary of its traditional uses, geographical distribution and current cultivation situation, phytochemistry, pharmacokinetics, pharmacology, quality control, and toxicology. Moreover, this review also serves as an in-depth discussion on the shortcomings of the current research on PRA, a subject not previously discussed in reviews regarding PRA, and puts forward its own views and solutions. So far, more needs to be done to understand the mechanism of action of PRA, as well as the relationships between its chemical components and their potential synergistic and antagonistic effects. Furthermore, a comprehensive evaluation of medicinal quality should be carried out to understand the long-term in vivo toxicity and clinical efficacy of PRA and to provide more information for the development of new drugs and treatment methods for various diseases using PRA and its chemical components.

Exploration of the pathogenesis of nephrotic syndrome and traditional Chinese medicine intervention based on gut microbiota

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) represents a prevalent syndrome among various chronic kidney disease pathologies and is known for its higher severity and worse prognosis compared with chronic glomerulonephritis. Understanding its pathogenesis and identifying more effective treatment modalities have long been a concern of kidney specialists. With the introduction of the gut-kidney axis concept and the progress in omics technologies, alterations in the gut microbiota have been observed in primary and secondary NS. This link has been extensively researched in conditions such as diabetic nephropathy and immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy. Thus, dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is seen as a crucial contributing factor in NS; however, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews that elucidate the changes in the gut microbiota across different NS conditions and that describe its mechanistic role in the disease. Moreover, serving as an innate regulator of the gut microbiota, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has the potential to exert a profound impact on the expression of inflammation-promoting agents, decreasing the levels of endotoxins and uremic toxins. In addition, it strengthens the stability of the intestinal barrier while controlling the metabolic function of the body through its efficient modulation of the gut microbiota. This intricate process yields far-reaching consequences for NS.

Inhibition of ALKBH5 inhibits inflammation and excessive proliferation by promoting TRIM13 m6A modifications in glomerular mesangial cells

Chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) refers to the inflammation of glomeruli in the kidneys. Glomerular mesangial cells (GMCs) play a pivotal role in the development of CGN. In the present study, we investigated the impact of ALKBH5, a m6A demethylase, on inflammation and hyperproliferation in mouse glomerular mesangial cells (MMCs) and elucidated the molecular mechanisms contributing to CGN. Western blotting and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were employed to evaluate the expression of ALKBH5 and TRIM13. In addition, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure the levels of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10) in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced MMCs supernatant. Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP) was performed to investigate the effect of ALKBH5 on the levels of TRIM13-m6A mRNA. The stability of TRIM13 mRNA was evaluated using an actinomycin D assay. Significantly elevated expression of ALKBH5 was found in LPS-induced MMCs. Interference with ALKBH5 expression inhibited inflammation and excessive proliferation in LPS-induced MMCs. Moreover, interfering with ALKBH5 expression significantly reduced the levels of TRIM13-m6A modification. The overexpression of TRIM13 in MMCs reversed the inflammation and proliferation induced by ALKBH5 interference. In addition, interference with TRIM13 expression inhibited the activation of the NF-κB pathway and suppressed inflammation and proliferation in MMCs. Inhibiting ALKBH5 hinders inflammation and hyperproliferation by improving TRIM13-m6A modification in glomerular MCs. We believe these findings will further provide insights into the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for CGN.

Paeoniflorin ameliorates oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy via inhibiting neuroinflammation through influence on gut microbiota

Oxaliplatin (OXA)-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN) is a severe side effect that greatly limits OXA clinical use and threatens patients' life and health. Paeoniflorin exhibits extensive anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, but whether it can protect against OIPN and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of paeoniflorin on OIPN and probe into the underlying mechanisms. The OIPN model was established through oxaliplatin injection in rats. The ameliorative effects of paeoniflorin on OIPN was assessed by nociceptive hypersensitivities through pain behavioral methods. Neuroinflammation were examined by measuring the levels of inflammatory cytokines and immune cells infiltration. The signaling pathway of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB was evaluated by Western blotting. Gut microbial changes were detected by 16S rDNA sequencing technology. In addition, antibiotics-induced microbiota eradication and fecal microbial transplantation (FMT) were applied for exploring the function of gut microbiota in the protective effects of paeoniflorin. The results revealed that paeoniflorin significantly alleviated mechanical and cold hypersensitivity, mitigated neuroinflammation and influenced gut microbial composition in OIPN rats. Fecal microbiota transplantation further verified that gut microbiota was required for paeoniflorin ameliorating OIPN and that the underlying mechanism involved downregulation of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling. Specifically, Akkermansia, Dubosiella and Corynebacterium might serve as crucial genera regulated by paeoniflorin in the treatment of OIPN. In summary, our investigations delineate paeoniflorin's ameliorative effects on OIPN by alleviating neuroinflammation through regulations of gut microbiota. This suggests that paeoniflorin may serve as a new potential strategy for treatment of OIPN in clinical practice.

Salidroside alleviates cholestasis-induced liver fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic stellate cells via activation of the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β signaling pathway and regulating intestinal flora distribution

Salidroside (SAL), a phenylpropanoid bioactive compound, has various pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects. However, the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of action of SAL on cholestatic liver injury are unclear. This study investigated the mechanism and effects of salidroside (SAL) on intestinal flora distribution and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation in cholestatic hepatic fibrosis. Bile duct ligation was used to cause cholestasis BALB/c mice. The therapeutic efficacy of SAL in liver fibrosis was assessed via serum/tissue biochemical analyses and liver tissue hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining. Inflammation and oxidative stress were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and western blotting. HSC were activated in vitro using lipopolysaccharide, and the effects of SAL on HSC migration and inflammatory factor expression were detected via scratch, transwell, and western blotting assays. The effects of SAL on the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway in vivo and in vitro were detected using western blotting. 16sRNA sequencing was used to detect the effect of SAL on the diversity of the intestinal flora. Ileal histopathology and western blotting were used to detect the protective effect of SAL on the intestinal mucosal barrier. SAL reduces liver inflammation and oxidative stress and protects against liver fibrosis with cholestasis. It inhibits HSC activation and activates the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, SAL restores the abundance of intestinal flora, which contributes to the repair of the intestinal mucosal barrier, inhibits endotoxin translocation, and indirectly inhibits HSC activation, reversing the course of cholestatic liver fibrosis. SAL inhibits HSC activation through the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway and improves intestinal flora distribution, thereby protecting and reversing the progression of hepatic fibrosis.

Genus Paeonia monoterpene glycosides: A systematic review on their pharmacological activities and molecular mechanisms

BACKGROUND

Genus Paeonia, which is the main source of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Paeoniae Radix Rubra (Chishao in Chinese), Paeoniae Radix Alba (Baishao in Chinese) and Moutan Cortex (Mudanpi in Chinese), is rich in active pharmaceutical ingredient such as monoterpenoid glycosides (MPGs). MPGs from Paeonia have extensive pharmacological effects, but the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of MPGs has not been comprehensively reviewed.

PURPOSE

MPGs compounds are one of the main chemical components of the genus Paeonia, with a wide variety of compounds and strong pharmacological activities, and the structure of the mother nucleus-pinane skeleton is similar to that of a cage. The purpose of this review is to summarize the pharmacological activity and mechanism of action of MPGs from 2012 to 2023, providing reference direction for the development and utilization of Paeonia resources and preclinical research.

METHODS

Keywords and phrases are widely used in database searches, such as PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and X-Mol to search for citations related to the new compounds, extensive pharmacological research and molecular mechanisms of MPGs compounds of genus Paeonia.

RESULTS

Modern research confirms that MPGs are the main compounds in Paeonia that exert pharmacological effects. MPGs with extensive pharmacological characteristics are mainly concentrated in two categories: paeoniflorin derivatives and albiflflorin derivatives among MPGs, which contains 32 compounds. Among them, 5 components including paeoniflorin, albiflorin, oxypaeoniflorin, 6'-O-galloylpaeoniflorin and paeoniflorigenone have been extensively studied, while the other 28 components have only been confirmed to have a certain degree of anti-inflammatory and anticomplementary effects. Studies of pharmacological effects are widely involved in nervous system, endocrine system, digestive system, immune system, etc., and some studies have identified clear mechanisms. MPGs exert pharmacological activity through multilateral mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, inhibition of cell apoptosis, regulation of brain gut axis, regulation of gut microbiota and downregulation of mitochondrial apoptosis, etc. CONCLUSION: This systematic review delved into the pharmacological effects and related molecular mechanisms of MPGs. However, there are still some compounds in MPGs whose pharmacological effects and pharmacological mechanisms have not been clarified. In addition, extensive clinical randomized trials are needed to verify the efficacy and dosage of MPGs.

The therapeutic effect of wine-processed Corni Fructus on chronic renal failure in rats through the interference with the LPS/IL-1-mediated inhibition of RXR function

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Corni Fructus, derived from the fruit of Cornus officinalis Sieb. et Zucc, is a widely utilized traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with established efficacy in the treatment of diverse chronic kidney diseases. Crude Corni Fructus (CCF) and wine-processed Corni Fructus (WCF) are the main processed forms of Corni Fructus. Generally, TCM is often used after processing (paozhi). Despite the extensive use of processed TCM, the underlying mechanisms of processing for most TCMs have been unclear so far.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, an integrated strategy combined renal metabolomics with proteomics was established and investigated the potential processing mechanisms of CCF or WCF on chronic renal failure (CRF) models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Firstly, the differences in biochemical parameters and pathological histology were compared to evaluate the effects of CCF and WCF on CRF model rats. Then, the tissue differential metabolites and proteins between CCF and WCF on CRF model rats were screened based on metabolomics and proteomics technology. Concurrently, a combined approach of metabolomics and proteomics was employed to investigate the underlying mechanisms associated with these marker metabolic products and proteins.

RESULTS

Compared to the MG group, there were 27 distinct metabolites and 143 different proteins observed in the CCF-treatment group, while the WCF-treatment group exhibited 24 distinct metabolites and 379 different proteins. Further, the integration interactions analysis of the protein and lipid metabolite revealed that both WCF and CCF improved tryptophan degradation and LPS/IL-1-mediated inhibition of RXR function. WCF inhibited RXR function more than CCF via the modulation of LPS/IL-1 in the CRF model. Experimental results were validated by qRT-PCR and western blotting. Notably, the gene expression amount and protein levels of FMO3 and CYP2E1 among 8 genes influenced by WCF were higher compared to CCF.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for further study of Corni Fructus with different processing techniques in CRF. The findings also offer guidance for investigating the mechanism of action of herbal medicines in diseases employing diverse processing techniques.

Salidroside ameliorates diabetic retinopathy and Müller cell inflammation via the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β/NF-𝜅B pathway

Purpose

To determine whether salidroside (SAL) modulates inflammatory cytokines in rat retinal Müller cells (rMC-1) in a hyperglycemic environment by investigating the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of SAL in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

A streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat model was established to examine the effects of SAL using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemistry. rMC-1 cells were grown in 50 mM of high-glucose medium. These simulated diabetic conditions were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of SAL using a Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, immunofluorescence staining, western blotting, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‒PCR). H&E staining was used to analyze the number of ganglion cells in the retina. rMC-1 lysates were processed for qRT‒PCR to measure the steady-state mRNA expression levels of inflammatory markers, such as interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 10 (IL-10), and interleukin 1β (IL-1β). Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence staining were performed to determine the levels of these inflammatory markers.

Results

Our study showed that SAL reversed retinal ganglion cell loss and attenuated nuclear factor kappa B (NF-𝜅B) p65 translocation to the nucleus in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Incubating rMC-1 in different concentrations of SAL for 24 to 48 h affected cell viability. Furthermore, SAL treatment significantly decreased the protein levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β compared with those in cells cultured in high glucose (HG). The mRNA expression levels of IL-6 and IL-1β were considerably reduced after SAL treatment, whereas the mRNA expression levels of IL-10 were significantly increased. Interestingly, the beneficial effects of SAL on HG-treated rMC-1 cells were abolished by the PI3K inhibitor LY294002.

Conclusions

These results indicate that SAL treatment reduces cytokine activation in cultured rMC-1. Furthermore, SAL prevents diabetic retinopathy (DR), in part, by modulating the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β/NF-kB pathway to inhibit Müller cell activation. Thus, SAL is expected to be a potential agent for ameliorating the progression of DR.

Composition analysis of Compound Shenhua Tablet, a seven-herb Chinese medicine for IgA nephropathy: evaluation of analyte-capacity of the assays

Compound Shenhua Tablet, a medicine comprising seven herbs, is employed in treating IgA nephropathy. This study aimed to meticulously analyze its chemical composition. Based on a list of candidate compounds, identified through extensive literature review pertinent to the tablet's herbal components, the composition analysis entailed the systematic identification, characterization, and quantification of the constituents. The analyte-capacity of LC/ESI-MS-based and GC/EI-MS-based assays was evaluated. The identified and characterized constituents were quantified to determine their content levels and were ranked based on the constituents' daily doses. A total of 283 constituents, classified into 12 distinct categories, were identified and characterized in the Compound Shenhua Tablet. These constituents exhibited content levels of 1-10 982 μg·g-1, with daily doses of 0.01-395 μmol·d-1. The predominant constituents, with daily doses of ≥ 10 μmol·d-1, include nine organic acids (citric acid, quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, gallic acid, neochlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid C, isochlorogenic acid B, and linoleic acid), five iridoids (specnuezhenide, nuezhenoside G13, nuezhenidic acid, secoxyloganin, and secologanoside), two monoterpene glycosides (paeoniflorin and albiflorin), a sesquiterpenoid (curzerenone), a triterpenoid (oleanolic acid), and a phenylethanoid (salidroside). Additionally, there were 83, 126, and 55 constituents detected in the medicine with daily doses of 1-10, 0.1-1, and 0.01-0.1 μmol·d-1, respectively. The combination of the LC/ESI-MS-based and GC/EI-MS-based assays demonstrated a complementary relationship in their analyte-capacity for detecting the constituents present in the medicine. This comprehensive composition analysis establishes a solid foundation for further pharmacological research on Compound Shenhua Tablet and facilitates the quality evaluation of this complex herbal medicine.

GDF15 Interference Regulates Proliferation, Inflammation, and Autophagy of Lipopolysaccharide-induced Mesangial Cells by Inhibiting PI3K/ AKT/mTOR Signaling

BACKGROUND

Chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) is a primary glomerular disease. As a circulating protein, growth and differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) participates in a variety of biological processes.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the role of GDF15 in CGN.

METHODS

HBZY-1 cells were induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cell viability was detected using a cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, and a western blot was applied for the detection of GDF15 protein expression. After GDF15 silencing, cell proliferation was evaluated by CCK-8 assay and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EDU) staining. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits were used to detect the levels of inflammatory cytokines. Autophagy was assessed by GFP-LC3B assay. Besides, the expression of NF-κB signaling-, autophagy- (LC3II/I, Beclin l and p62) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling-related proteins were measured by western blot. Afterwards, PI3K agonist 740Y-P was used to clarify whether GDF15 affected LPS-induced HBZY-1 cells via PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling.

RESULTS

LPS induction increased cell viability and elevated GDF15 expression in HBZY-1 cells. After GDF15 expression depletion, the increased proliferation of LPS-induced HBZY-1 cells was decreased. Additionally, GDF15 knockdown suppressed the release of inflammatory factors in LPS-induced HBZY-1 cells and activated autophagy. Moreover, the PI3K/AKT/ mTOR signal was evidenced to be activated by GDF15 deficiency. The further addition of 740Y-P reversed the impacts of GDF15 deficiency on the proliferation, inflammation, and autophagy of LPS-induced HBZY-1.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, GDF15 downregulation could protect against CGN via blocking PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling.

SOCS1 Peptidomimetic Alleviates Glomerular Inflammation in MsPGN by Inhibiting Macrophage M1 Polarization

Mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN), the most common pathological change in primary glomerulonephritis, is characterized by increased macrophage infiltration into glomeruli, which results in proinflammatory cytokine release. Macrophage infiltration and differentiation are induced by the Janus kinase 2 and signal transducer and activator of the transcription 1 (JAK2/STAT1) pathway. As a suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) downregulates the immune response by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT1 pathway, we investigated whether a peptide mimicking the SOCS1 kinase inhibitor region, namely, SOCS1 peptidomimetic, protects against nephropathy. Glomerular JAK2/STAT1 pathway activation was synchronized with kidney injury in an MsPGN rat model. Rats treated with the SOCS1 peptidomimetic exhibited reduced pathological glomerular changes and lessened macrophage recruitment. Moreover, in vivo, the phosphorylation of the JAK2/STAT1 pathway was downregulated in infiltrated macrophages of glomeruli. In vitro, the SOCS1 peptidomimetic inhibited macrophage M1 polarization by suppressing JAK2/STAT1 activation. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that the SOCS1 peptidomimetic plays a protective role against pathologic glomerular changes in MsPGN by reducing macrophage infiltration and inhibiting macrophage polarizing to the M1 phenotype. SOCS1 peptidomimetic, therefore, presents a feasible therapeutic strategy to alleviate renal inflammation in MsPGN.

RNA sequencing reveals the mechanism of FTO in inhibiting inflammation and excessive proliferation of lipopolysaccharide-induced human glomerular mesangial cells

Chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease in China; thus, there is an urgent need for effective therapeutic targets and strategies for CGN treatment. However, studies on CGN pathogenesis are limited. In this study, we found that the fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) was significantly decreased in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced human glomerular mesangial cells (HGMCs) (P < 0.01) and kidney tissues of CGN patients (P < 0.05). Moreover, double-labeling immunofluorescence and flow cytometry assays demonstrated that the overexpression of FTO could inhibit inflammation and excessive proliferation of HGMCs. Furthermore, RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analyses revealed that FTO overexpression induced differential expression of 269 genes (absolute fold change ≥ 2 and P-value < 0.05), including 143 upregulated and 126 downregulated genes. Further functional analysis of these differentially expressed genes by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses suggested that FTO possibly mediates its inhibitory function by regulating the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway and substance metabolism. Lastly, analysis of the PPI network and further identification of the top 10 hub genes (RPS15, RPS18, RPL18A, GNB2L1, RPL19, EEF1A1, RPS25, FAU, UBA52, and RPS6) indicated that FTO mediates its function by affecting the ribosomal proteins. Therefore, in this study, we elucidated the important role of FTO in the regulation of inflammation and excessive proliferation of HGMCs, suggesting FTO administration as a suitable therapeutic intervention for CGN.

A network pharmacology and molecular docking approach to reveal the mechanism of Chaihu Anxin Capsule in depression

Introduction

As one of the most frequently diagnosed mental disorders, depression is expected to become the most common disease worldwide by 2030. Previous studies have shown that Chaihu Anxin Capsule has powerful antidepressant effects. However, its mechanisms are not fully understood. The aim of our research is to reveal the mechanisms of Chaihu Anxin Capsule in treating depression.

Methods

Information about the ingredients of the herb was gathered using the TCMSP. Genes associated with antidepressants were gathered from the GeneCards database. An "herbal-ingredient-target" network was constructed and analyzed using Cytoscape software. The PPI network of the antidepressant targets of Chaihu Anxin Capsule was constructed using the STRING database. KEGG pathway and GO enrichment were used to analyze the antidepressant targets. Molecular docking technology was used to confirm the capacity of the primary active ingredients of Chaihu Anxin Capsule to bind to central targets using AutoDock Vina and PyMOL software.

Results

Network analysis showed that five targets might be therapeutic targets of Chaihu Anxin Capsule in depression, namely, JUN, IL6, AKT1, TP53, and STAT3. The gene enrichment analysis implied that Chaihu Anxin Capsule benefits patients with depression by modulating pathways related to lipids and atherosclerosis and the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications. Molecular docking analyses revealed that JUN, IL6, AKT1, TP53, and STAT3 had good affinities for quercetin, beta-sitosterol and kaempferol.

Conclusion

According to the bioinformatics data, the antidepressant effects of Chaihu Anxin Capsule may be primarily linked to cholesterol and atherosclerosis as well as the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications. These results emphasize that the expected therapeutic targets may be possible indicators for antidepressant activity.

The therapeutic effect of Shenhua tablet against mesangial cell proliferation and renal inflammation in mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis

Shenhua tablet (SH), a formulation of traditional Chinese medicine, exerts renoprotective effect on chronic kidney diseases, and it has been found to restrain inflammation, but the mechanism is still unclear. Here, we explored the potential renoprotection of SH in mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN) rat model induced by anti-Thy1 antibody. Administration of SH reduced urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) and significantly attenuated mesangial cell proliferation and renal inflammation. Notably, SH protected rats against renal inflammation, which was associated with decreasing macrophage infiltration and promoting macrophage anti-inflammatory activity. Network analysis combined with arrays identified the Janus kinase signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway as the main pathways of SH could target inflammation. Furthermore, it was confirmed that mesangial cell proliferation, which response to inflammation, were alleviated by ASS1 expression enhanced after SH administration both in vivo and in vitro. Collectively, SH has the beneficial on relieving the progression of MsPGN to alleviate inflammation and mesangial proliferation by inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation and maintains the expression level of ASS1, might be an effective strategy for treating MsPGN.

Uncovering mechanisms of Baojin Chenfei formula treatment for silicosis by inhibiting inflammation and fibrosis based on serum pharmacochemistry and network analysis

BACKGROUND

Baojin Chenfei formula (BCF), a Chinese herbal formula, has significant effects on improving the clinical symptoms of patients with silicosis. However, its active compounds and the underlying mechanisms have not yet fully been elucidated.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to explore the underlying mechanisms of BCF in treating silicosis.

METHODS

The rat model of silicosis was developed via a single intratracheal instillation of SiO₂ suspension to examine the therapeutic impacts of BCF on silicosis. Subsequently, the active compounds, targets, and mechanisms of BCF were analyzed based on serum pharmacochemistry and network analysis. Finally, the underlying mechanisms of representative compounds of BCF were validated in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

BCF significantly alleviated SiO₂-induced silicosis in rats, evidenced by improved lung function, decreased pathological injury, and reduced inflammatory response and fibrosis. 19 active compounds were identified from the rat serum samples after BCF gavage. Subsequently, 299 targets for these 19 compounds in BCF and 257 genes related to silicosis were collected. 26 overlapping targets, including AKT1, TNF, IL6, MAPK3, EGFR, and others, were obtained from the intersection of the 299 BCF-related targets and 257 silicosis-associated genes. These overlapping targets mainly corresponded to glycyrrhetic acid and paeoniflorin and were mainly associated with positive regulation of smooth muscle cell proliferation, positive regulation of MAP kinase activity, and inflammatory response. In vitro experiments also demonstrated that the representative compounds of BCF (glycyrrhetic acid and paeoniflorin) could suppress inflammatory response by the MAPK pathway, and also inhibited fibroblast activation by the EGFR-PI3K-AKT pathway.

CONCLUSION

Active compounds of BCF, such as glycyrrhetic acid and paeoniflorin, could suppress inflammatory response by the MAPK pathway and suppress fibroblast activation by the EGFR-PI3K-AKT pathway. These might be the mechanisms of BCF in treating silicosis.

Paeoniflorin suppresses kidney inflammation by regulating macrophage polarization via KLF4-mediated mitophagy

BACKGROUND

Macrophages M1 polarization involved in the process of renal inflammatory injury, is a well-established hallmark of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Paeoniflorin (PF), a water-soluble monoterpene glycoside extracted from Paeonia lactiflora, revealed renal anti-inflammatory activities in our previous study. However, the potential molecular mechanism of PF on CKD remains unknown.

PURPOSE

The present study aims to investigate the regulation of PF on macrophage polarization in CKD.

METHODS

A CKD model was established by cationic bovine serum albumin and a murine macrophage cell line RAW264.7 induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were used to clarify the underlying mechanisms of PF in CKD.

RESULTS

Results showed that PF exhibited favorable protective effects on CKD model mice by promoting renal function, ameliorating renal pathological injury and podocyte damage. Furthermore, PF inhibited the infiltration of M1 macrophage marker CD68 and iNOS in kidney tissue, but increased the proportion of M2 macrophage marker CD206. In RAW264.7 cells stimulated with LPS, the levels of cytokines including IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, MCP-1 were lessened under PF treatment, while the levels of Arg1, Fizz1, IL-10 and Ym-1 were augmented. These results indicated that PF promoted macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 in vivo and in vitro. More importantly, PF repaired the damaged mitochondria through increasing mitochondrial membrane potential and reducing ROS accumulation. The mitophagy-related proteins PINK1, Parkin, Bnip3, P62 and LC3 were up-regulated by PF, accompanied by the incremental expressions of Krüppel-like transcription factor 4 (KLF4). Moreover, the promotion of mitophagy and inhibition of M1 macrophage polarization owing to PF were reversed by mitophagy inhibitor Mdivi-1 or silencing KLF4.

CONCLUSION

Overall, PF suppressed renal inflammation by promoting macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 and inducing mitophagy via regulating KLF4. It is expected to provide a new strategy for exploring the effects of PF in treating CKD.

Paeoniflorin alleviates ischemia/reperfusion induced acute kidney injury by inhibiting Slc7a11-mediated ferroptosis

The pathophysiological mechanism of acute kidney injury (AKI) is complicated, and effective drugs are still lacking. Ferroptosis is a newly discovered regulatory cell death mode characterized by the lethal accumulation of iron and reactive oxygen species-(ROS-)-dependent lipid hydroperoxides. In recent years, ferroptosis has been confirmed to be involved in the progression of AKI. Paeoniflorin (PF) is a traditional Chinese medicine that has protective effects on a variety of kidney diseases including AKI. However, the mechanism by which PF attenuates AKI is unclear. We detected that PF attenuated serum biochemical markers, histological damage, ferroptosis and inflammation in a dose-dependent manner in a mouse AKI model with bilateral renal artery ischemia-reperfusion (IR). Hypoxia-reoxygenation (HR)-induced ferroptosis and inflammation was also inhibited by PF in human renal tubular epithelial cells (HK2). RNA sequence analysis revealed that PF inhibited ferroptosis in HK2 cells by upregulating Slc7a11 in the glutathione pathway after HR treatment. PF failed to further protect cells with specific knockdown of Slc7a11 from ferroptosis under HR conditions. Consequently, these data indicated that PF prevention of ferroptosis in AKI requires dependence on Slc7a11. This study provided a scientific basis for the clinical search for drugs to prevent IR induced AKI.

Differential expression profile of urinary exosomal microRNAs in patients with mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the differential expression profile of urinary exosomal microRNA (miRNA) in patients with mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN) and healthy controls and their potential role in the pathogenesis of MsPGN.

METHODS

Urine specimens were collected from five MsPGN patients and five healthy controls, and differentially expressed miRNAs were screened using high-throughput sequencing technology. The sequenced urinary exosomal miRNAs were further investigated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in a validation cohort (16 MsPGN patients and 16 healthy controls). Correlation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were used to determine the association between clinical features and miRNA expression in MsPGN. Finally, fluorescence in situ hybridization was performed to detect miRNA expression in the renal tissues of MsPGN patients.

RESULTS

Five differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-125b-2-3p, miR-205-5p, let-7b-3p, miR-1262, and miR-548o-3p) were identified by qRT-PCR. The expression of these miRNAs correlated with ACR, 24hUpro, mAlb, UA, and combined yielded a ROC curve area of 0.916 in discriminating MsPGN patients from the controls. In addition, the expression of miR-205-5p, let-7b-3p, miR-1262, and miR-548o-3p was elevated in the MsPGN patient group, and miR-125b-2-3p was decreased in the MsPGN patient group.

CONCLUSIONS

Differential expression of urinary exosomal miRNAs may pose a risk of MsPGN and help distinguish MsPGN patients from controls. Certain miRNA expressions may be associated with disease progression, contributing to the epigenetic understanding of the pathophysiology of MsPGN.

Albiflorin ameliorates mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis by PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway

Background: The most common type of glomerulonephritis in China is mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) featured with mesangial cell overproliferation and inflammation, as well as fibrosis. Albiflorin (AF) is an effective composition extracted from Paeonia Alba Radix and has been administrated for various diseases. Nevertheless, there is no research reporting the effect of AF on MPGN.Purpose: Our work aims to probe into the role and possible mechanism of AF on MPGN.Research Design: We investigated the effects of AF on mesangial cell overproliferation, inflammation, and fibrosis in vitro and in vivo and identified the related signaling pathways.Study Sample: human mesangial cells (HMCs) and male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats.Data Analysis: SPSS 18.0 was used to analyze the data.Results: AF attenuated the proliferation and inflammation both in vitro and in vivo. In detail, AF decreased the ki67 expression in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-treated HMCs and MPGN rats, and the mRNA expression or contents of inflammatory cytokines were reduced after AF treatment. The fibrosis of LPS-treated HMCs and MPGN rats was also reduced by AF. Moreover, AF effectively restrained 24 h urinary protein, improved kidney function, and mitigated dyslipidemia and pathological injury of MPGN rats. Additionally, we found that the protective effects of AF were accompanied by the blocking of PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway, and the inhibitory effects of AF on MPGN were reversed by insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), the PI3K agonist.Conclusions: AF alleviates MPGN via restraining mesangial cell overproliferation, inflammation, and fibrosis via PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling.

Ntrk1 promotes mesangial cell proliferation and inflammation in rat glomerulonephritis model by activating the STAT3 and p38/ERK MAPK signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN) accounts for a main cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD), chronic renal failure and uremia. This paper aimed to examine the effect of Ntrk1 on MsPGN development, so as to identify a novel therapeutic target for MsPGN.

METHODS

The MsPGN rat model was constructed by single injection of Thy1.1 monoclonal antibody via the tail vein. Additionally, the Ntrk1 knockdown rat model was established by injection of Ntrk1-RNAi lentivirus via the tail vein. Periodic acid-schiff staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed on kidney tissues. Moreover, the rat urinary protein was detected. Mesangial cells were transfected and treated with p38 inhibitor (SB202190) and ERK inhibitor (PD98059). Meanwhile, the viability and proliferation of mesangial cells were analyzed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assays. Gene expression was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western-blot (WB) assays.

RESULTS

The proliferation of mesangial cells was enhanced in glomerulus and Ki67 expression was up-regulated in renal tubule of MsPGN rats. The urine protein level increased in MsPGN rats. Pro-inflammatory factors and Ntrk1 expression were up-regulated in glomerulus of MsPGN rats. Ntrk1 up-regulation promoted the viability, proliferation, expression of pro-inflammatory factors and activation of the STAT3, p38 and ERK signaling pathways in mesangial cells. Ntrk1 knockdown reduced mesangial cell proliferation, urine protein, pro-inflammatory factors, activation of STAT3, p38 and ERK signaling pathways in glomerulus, and decreased Ki67 expression in renal tubule of MsPGN rats. Treatment with SB202190 and PD98059 reversed the effect of Ntrk1 on promoting the viability, proliferation and inflammatory response of mesangial cells.

CONCLUSION

Ntrk1 promoted mesangial cell proliferation and inflammation in MsPGN rats by activating the STAT3 and p38/ERK MAPK signaling pathways.

The pharmacological validation of the Xiao-Jian-Zhong formula against ulcerative colitis by network pharmacology integrated with metabolomics

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is pathologically characterized by an immune response accommodative insufficiency and dysbiosis accompanied by persistent epithelial barrier dysfunction, and is divided into ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Its progression increases the susceptibility to colitis-associated cancer (CAC), as well as other complications. The Xiao-Jian-Zhong (XJZ) formula has a historical application in the clinic to combat gastrointestinal disorders.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The investigation aimed to explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms of XJZ.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was diluted in drinking water and given to mice for a week to establish murine models of experimental colitis, and the XJZ solution was administered for two weeks. Network pharmacology analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were utilized to predict the therapeutic role of XJZ against UC and CAC. 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics were conducted utilizing murine feces to examine the changes in the microbiome profile. Biochemical experiments were conducted to confirm the predicted functions.

RESULTS

XJZ treatment markedly attenuated DSS-induced experimental colitis progression, and the targets were enriched in inflammation, infection, and tumorigenesis, predicted by network pharmacology analysis. Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, the XJZ-targets were related to the survival probability in patients with colorectal cancer, underlying a potential therapeutic value in cancer intervention. Moreover, the XJZ therapy successfully rescued the decreased richness and diversity of microbiota, suppressed the potentially pathogenic phenotype of the gut microorganisms, and reversed the declined linoleic acid metabolism and increased cytochrome P450 activity in murine colitis models. Our in-vitro experiments confirmed that the XJZ treatment suppressed Caspase1-dependent pyroptosis and increased peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor-γ(PPAR-γ) expression in the colon, facilitated the alternative activation of macrophages (Mφs), inhibited tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα)-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in intestinal organoids (IOs), thereby favoring the mucosal healing.

CONCLUSION

The XJZ formula is efficacious for colitis by a prompt resolution of inflammation and dysbiosis, and by re-establishing a microbiome profile that favors re-epithelization, and prevents carcinogenesis.

Rhein Inhibits Proliferation, Extracellular Matrix Deposition, and Inflammation in Mesangial Cells via ROS/Akt Signaling Pathway

It has been reported that rhein, a Chinese herbal compound, has a potent anti-inflammatory effect on various diseases. However, it remains elusive whether rhein has a protective effect on chronic kidney disease (CKD) and what its underlying mechanism may be. In the present study, we evaluated whether rhein could prevent lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced proliferation, expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, and inflammation in rat mesangial cells (MCs), and whether these effects were mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Akt signaling. We also investigated the protective effect of rhein on renal function in a rat CKD model. Results showed that rhein significantly suppressed LPS-initiated proliferation in MCs in a cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) assay. Meanwhile, rhein significantly inhibited LPS-induced expression of ECM proteins and inflammation, as indicated by the decreased expression of fibronectin, α smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interferon γ (IFN-γ). Of note, rhein significantly enhanced LPS-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibited LPS-induced Akt phosphorylation. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of rhein on Akt phosphorylation was inhibited by H2O2 scavenger catalase. Importantly, the protective effect of rhein was almost totally lost in the presence of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) protagonist insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Finally, rhein significantly decreased 24 h urinary protein, serum creatinine (SCr), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) in CKD rats. Collectively, these results suggested that rhein improved CKD through inhibition of proliferation, ECM synthesis, and inflammation via ROS/Akt signaling in MCs.

Chronic infusion of ELABELA alleviates vascular remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats via anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and anti-proliferative effects

Inflammatory activation and oxidative stress promote the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), which accounts for pathological vascular remodeling in hypertension. ELABELA (ELA) is the second endogenous ligand for angiotensin receptor-like 1 (APJ) receptor that has been discovered thus far. In this study, we investigated whether ELA regulated VSMC proliferation and vascular remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). We showed that compared to that in Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKYs), ELA expression was markedly decreased in the VSMCs of SHRs. Exogenous ELA-21 significantly inhibited inflammatory cytokines and NADPH oxidase 1 expression, reactive oxygen species production and VSMC proliferation and increased the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) in VSMCs. Osmotic minipump infusion of exogenous ELA-21 in SHRs for 4 weeks significantly decreased diastolic blood pressure, alleviated vascular remodeling and ameliorated vascular inflammation and oxidative stress in SHRs. In VSMCs of WKY, angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced inflammatory activation, oxidative stress and VSMC proliferation were attenuated by pretreatment with exogenous ELA-21 but were exacerbated by ELA knockdown. Moreover, ELA-21 inhibited the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9 in both SHR-VSMCs and Ang II-treated WKY-VSMCs. We further revealed that exogenous ELA-21-induced inhibition of proliferation and PI3K/Akt signaling were amplified by the PI3K/Akt inhibitor LY294002, while the APJ receptor antagonist F13A abolished ELA-21-induced PI3K/Akt inhibition and Nrf2 activation in VSMCs. In conclusion, we demonstrate that ELA-21 alleviates vascular remodeling through anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and anti-proliferative effects in SHRs, indicating that ELA-21 may be a therapeutic agent for treating hypertension.

Clinical evidence construction of East Asian herbal medicine for inflammatory pain in rheumatoid arthritis based on integrative data mining approach

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to a significant social burden. East Asian herbal medicine (EAHM) has long been used to treat RA. Therefore, a systematic study of how EAHM treatments can be developed into new drugs using specific materials is needed.

METHODS

Eleven databases containing literature in English, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese were searched for randomized controlled trials comparing EAHM with conventional medicine (CM). A meta-analysis was performed on the variable data to assess their effects on inflammatory pain. Subsequently, we searched for core materials and combinations of core material-based data mining methods.

RESULTS

A total of 186 trials involving 19,716 patients with RA met the inclusion criteria. According to the meta-analysis, EAHM had a significantly superior effect on continuous pain intensity, tender joint count, and response rate. Patients treated with EAHM had a significantly reduced incidence of adverse events compared with those treated with CM. Based on additional analysis of the EAHM formula data included in this meta-analysis, 21 core materials and five core herbal combinations were identified.

CONCLUSION

EAHM remedies for RA have the adequate potential for use as candidate materials for treating inflammatory pain in RA. The candidate core herbs evaluated in this study act on multiple pathways and are expected to provide pain relief, sustained inflammation suppression, immune regulation, and prevention of joint destruction. It seems worthwhile to conduct follow-up research on drug development using the core materials derived from this review.

Aqueous Extract and Polysaccharide of Aconiti Lateralis Radix Induce Apoptosis and G0/G1 Phase Cell Cycle Arrest by PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway in Mesangial Cells

Mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MesPGN) is a common renal disease that lacks effective drug intervention. Aconiti Lateralis Radix (Fuzi), a natural Chinese medical herb, is found with significant therapeutic effects on various diseases in the clinic. However, its effects on MesPGN have not been reported. This study is aimed to discuss the therapeutic effects of the aqueous extract of Aconiti Lateralis Radix (ALR) and the polysaccharides of Aconiti Lateralis Radix (PALR) on MesPGN as well as the underlying mechanism. In this study, we, firstly, studied the anti-MesPGN mechanism of ALR and PALR. ALR and PALR inhibit the proliferation of the mesangial cells through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, induce the G0/G1 phase of block and apoptosis, inhibit the activity of Cyclin E and CDK2, increase the expression of Bax, cleaved caspase-8/caspase-8, and cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3 proteins, and effectively inhibit the growth of the mesangial cells. Overall, our data suggest that ALR and PALR may be potential candidates for MesPGN and that PALR is more effective than ALR.

Ameliorating role of microRNA-378 carried by umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells-released extracellular vesicles in mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their released extracellular vesicles (Evs) have shown protective effects against kidney diseases. This study aims to study the functions of umbilical cord MSCs-released Evs (ucMSC-Evs) and their implicated molecules in mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN).

METHODS

A rat model of MsPGN was induced by anti-Thy-1.1, and rat mesangial cells (rMCs) HBZY-1 were treated with PDGF-BB/DD to mimic MsPGN condition in vitro. Rats and cells were treated with different doses of ucMSC-Evs, and then the pathological changes in renal tissues and proliferation of rMCs were determined. Differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) after Evs treatment were screened by microarray analysis. The interactions among miR-378, PSMD14, and TGFBR1 were analyzed. Gain- and loss-of function studies of miR-378 and PSMD14 were performed to explore their effects on tissue hyperplasia and rMC proliferation and their interactions with the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway.

RESULTS

The ucMSC-Evs treatment ameliorated mesangial hyperplasia and fibrosis in rat renal tissues and suppressed the aberrant proliferation of rMCs in a dose-dependent manner. miR-378 was the most upregulated miRNA in tissues and cells after ucMSC-Evs treatment. miR-378 directly targeted PSMD14, and PSMD14 maintained the stability of TGFBR1 through deubiquitination modification, which led to TGF-β1/Smad2/3 activation. Either miR-378 knockdown or PSMD14 overexpression diminished the protective functions of ucMSC-Evs by activating the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

UcMSC-Evs ameliorate pathological process in MsPGN through the delivery of miR-378, which suppresses PSMD14-mediated TGFBR1 stability and inactivates the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway to reduce tissue hyperplasia and rMC proliferation. Video abstract.

Novel assays for quality evaluation of XueBiJing: Quality variability of a Chinese herbal injection for sepsis management

XueBiJing is an intravenous five-herb injection used to treat sepsis in China. The study aimed to develop a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)- or liquid chromatography-ultraviolet (LC-UV)-based assay for quality evaluation of XueBiJing. Assay development involved identifying marker constituents to make the assay therapeutically relevant and building a reliable one-point calibrator for monitoring the various analytes in parallel. Nine marker constituents from the five herbs were selected based on XueBiJing's chemical composition, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. A selectivity test (for “similarity of response”) was developed to identify and minimize interference by non-target constituents. Then, an intercept test was developed to fulfill “linearity through zero” for each analyte (absolute ratio of intercept to C response, <2%). Using the newly developed assays, we analyzed samples from 33 batches of XueBiJing, manufactured over three years, and found small batch-to-batch variability in contents of the marker constituents (4.1%–14.8%), except for senkyunolide I (26.5%).

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To make assays therapeutically relevant, criteria were proposed for defining herbal medicine efficacy & selecting analytes.

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Two tests were developed to build a one-point assay calibrator for the simultaneous monitoring of various analytes.

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Variability among 3-year batches of XueBiJing was evaluated for the first time using the therapeutically relevant assays.

Acidic Stigma maydis polysaccharides protect against podocyte injury in membranous nephropathy by maintenance of glomerular filtration barrier integrity and gut-kidney axis

MN mice models were induced by C-BSA, and we found that acidic stigma maydis polysaccharides  maintained the integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier by promoting slit diaphragm proteins expression and PI3K/AKT signaling.

Neuroprotective effect of paeoniflorin in the mouse model of Parkinson's disease through α-synuclein/protein kinase C δ subtype signaling pathway

OBJECTIVES

Paeoniflorin, an active component of Radix Paeoniae Alba, has a neuroprotective effect in Parkinson's animal models. However, its mechanism of action remains to be determined.

METHODS

In this study, we hypothesized that the neuroprotective effect of paeoniflorin occurs through the α-synuclein/protein kinase C δ subtype (PKC-δ) signaling pathway. We tested our hypothesis in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced mouse model of Parkinson's disease. We evaluated the effects of paeoniflorin on the expression levels of signal components of the α-synuclein/PKC-δ pathway, cellular apoptosis and motor performance.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrated that paeoniflorin restored the motor performance impairment caused by MPTP, inhibited apoptosis, and protected the ultrastructure of neurons. Paeoniflorin treatment also resulted in the dose-dependent upregulation of an antiapoptotic protein, B-cell lymphoma-2, at the mRNA and protein levels, similar to the effects of the positive control, selegiline. In contrast, paeoniflorin treatment downregulated the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins BCL2-Associated X2, α-synuclein, and PKC-δ at the mRNA and protein levels, as well as the level of the activated form of nuclear factor kappa B (p-NF-κB p65).

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, our results showed that paeoniflorin exerts its neuroprotective effect by regulating the α-synuclein/PKC-δ signaling pathway to reduce neuronal apoptosis.

Inhibition of immunoproteasome subunit low molecular mass polypeptide 7 with ONX-0914 improves hypoxic-ischemic brain damage via PI3K/Akt signaling

The immunoproteasome subunit low molecular mass polypeptide 7 (LMP7) leads to brain injuries, such as autoimmune neuritis and ischemic stroke, by activating inflammation. However, the roles and mechanisms of LMP7 in hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD) remain unclear. This study explored these issues in a rat model of HIBD. Pathology was evaluated using hematoxylin-eosin staining. LMP7 expression was detected using western blot analysis, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), and immunohistochemical staining. The presence of proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-a, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1β, was tested using ELISA and RT-qPCR. Behavioral performance was evaluated using a short-term neurological function score and the Morris water maze test. Compared to those in the Sham group, the HIBD group exhibited obvious upregulated LMP7 and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. HIBD rats exhibited severe pathological and behavioral damage. LMP7 inhibition with ONX-0914 reduced proinflammatory cytokine expression, attenuated pathological damage, and enhanced behavioral performance of rats with HIBD. Inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling with LY29400 increased LMP7 expression and abolished the protective effects of ONX-0914 in HIBD rats. Our findings indicate that LMP7 aggravates brain injury by triggering inflammatory responses in HIBD rats. LMP7 inhibition with ONX-0914 exerts protective effects on HIBD rats, possibly via PI3K/Akt signaling.

Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction attenuates Podocyte cytoskeletal protein damage in IgA nephropathy rats by regulating AT1R/Nephrin/c-Abl pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction(HQGZWWD) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine formula from Synopsis of Golden Chamber used to treat blood arthralgia. According to the principle that the same treatment can be used for different diseases, HQGZWWD has proven effective for IgA nephropathy (IgAN) associated with spleen and kidney yang deficiency.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, we investigated the mechanism by which HQGZWWD alleviates proteinuria and protects renal function in rats with IgAN by regulating the AT1R/Nephrin/c-Abl pathway.

METHODS

Rats were randomly divided into six groups: control, IgAN model, IgAN model treated with low-dose HQGZWWD, IgAN model treated with medium-dose HQGZWWD, IgAN model treated with high-dose HQGZWWD, and IgAN model treated with valsartan. IgAN was induced using bovine γ-globulin. We evaluated the mediating effects of HQGZWWD on podocyte cytoskeletal proteins, the AT1R/Nephrin/c-Abl pathway, upstream tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and TNF-α receptor-1 (TNFR1).

RESULTS

The IgAN rats displayed proteinuria, IgA deposition in the mesangial region, and podocyte cytoskeletal protein damage. The expression of TNF-α, TNFR1, AT1R, and c-Abl was increased in the IgAN rat kidney, whereas the expression of nephrin, podocin, ACTN4, and phosphorylated nephrin (p-nephrin) was reduced. HQGZWWD treatment significantly alleviated podocyte cytoskeletal protein damage in the IgAN rats, upregulated the expression of nephrin, podocin, and ACTN4, and the colocalized expression of F-actin and nephrin. This study demonstrates that HQGZWWD attenuates podocyte cytoskeletal protein damage by regulating the AT1R-nephrin- c-Abl pathway, upregulating the expression of p-nephrin, and downregulating the expression of AT1R and c-Abl.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that HQGZWWD attenuates podocyte cytoskeletal protein damage in IgAN rats by regulating the AT1R/Nephrin/c-Abl pathway, providing a potential therapeutic approach for IgAN.

Ellagic acid inhibits high glucose-induced injury in rat mesangial cells via the PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway

The pathological damage of mesangial cells serves an important role in the occurrence and development of diabetic nephropathy. Ellagic acid has been reported to possess antioxidant, antitumor, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties in several diseases, but the roles of ellagic acid in diabetic nephropathy are unclear. The main aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of ellagic acid on high glucose-induced mesangial cell damage. The results revealed that high glucose could induce the hyperproliferation of mesangial cells, decrease the activity of superoxide dismutase, increase the malondialdehyde content, the level of reactive oxygen species, the secretion of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) and the synthesis of extracellular matrix (Fibronectin, MMP-9 and TIMP-1) and activate the PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway. Ellagic acid could attenuate the injury of mesangial cells induced by high glucose in a concentration-dependent manner and its effect was consistent with that of a PI3K inhibitor (LY294002). Moreover, a PI3K agonist (740Y-P) reversed the protective effect of ellagic acid on mesangial cells induced by high glucose. In conclusion, ellagic acid protected mesangial cells from high glucose-induced injury in a concentration-dependent manner. The mechanism may be associated with ellagic acid inhibiting the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and reducing the expression levels of downstream transcription factor FOXO3a.

Reference genes for mesangial cell and podocyte qPCR gene expression studies under high-glucose and renin-angiotensin-system blocker conditions

BACKGROUND

Real-time PCR remains currently the gold standard method for gene expression studies. Identification of the best reference gene is a key point in performing high-quality qPCR, providing strong support for results, and performing as a source of bias when inappropriately chosen. Mesangial cells and podocytes, as essential cell lines to study diabetic kidney disease (DKD) physiopathology, demand accurate analysis of the reference genes used thus far to enhance the validity of gene expression studies, especially regarding high glucose (HG) and DKD treatments, with angiotensin II receptor blockers (e.g., losartan) being the most commonly used. This study aimed to evaluate the suitability and define the most stable reference gene for mesangial cell and podocyte studies of an in vitro DKD model of disease and its treatment.

METHODS

Five software packages (RefFinder, NormFinder, GeNorm, Bestkeeper, and DataAssist) and the comparative ΔCt method were selected to analyze six different candidate genes: HPRT, ACTB, PGAM-1, GAPDH, PPIA, and B2M. RNA was extracted, and cDNA was synthesized from immortalized mouse mesangial cells and podocytes cultured in 4 groups: control (n = 5; 5 mM glucose), mannitol (n = 5; 30 mM, as osmotic control), HG (n = 5; 30 mM glucose), and HG + losartan (n = 5; 30 mM glucose and 10-4 mM losartan). Real-time PCR was performed according to MIQE guidelines.

RESULTS

We identified that the use of 2 genes was the best combination for qPCR normalization for both mesangial cells and podocytes. For mesangial cells, the combination of HPRT and ACTB presented higher stability values. For podocytes, HPRT and GAPDH showed the best results.

CONCLUSION

This analysis provides support for the use of HPRT and ACTB as reference genes in mouse mesangial cell studies of gene expression via real-time PCR, while for podocytes, HPRT and GAPDH should be chosen.

Inhibition of suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 affects mesangial cell proliferation and cell cycle in mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis

To explore the role of suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 (SOCS-3) in mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN). SOCS-3 expression in kidney tissues from MsPGN patients was detected using immunohistochemistry. Double immunofluorescence staining was performed to investigate the localization of SOCS-3 with α-SMA in glomeruli. Heminephrectomized wild-type (WT) and SOCS-3^-/- (KO) mice were injected with Habu-snake venom (HSV) to establish MsPGN models, and renal function were compared. Simultaneously, immunofluorescence, periodic acid-Schiff staining, Picrosirius red staining, as well as immunohistochemistry for PCNA, MAC-2 and type IV collagen in glomeruli were performed. In addition, primary mouse renal mesangial cells and SV40 MES-13 cells were transfected with SOCS-3 siRNA or SOCS-3 lentiviral activation particles, followed by EdU assay, flow cytometry, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting. Mesangial SOCS-3 expression was enhanced in glomeruli of MsPGN patients, and SOCS-3 was well co-localized with activated α-SMA. After HSV injection, WT and KO mice presented with the increases in the serum creatinine, urea nitrogen, and urinary protein, especially in KO mice. Besides, SOCS-3^-/- alleviated the hyperplasia of glomerular MCs in MsPGN mice, with the reductions in PCNA, MAC-2, and collagen deposition. Furthermore, SOCS-3 inhibition reduced the cell proportion at S phase to suppress cell proliferation, with the downregulations of Cyclin A, Cyclin D1, PCNA, and Ki-67. SOCS-3 knockout can alleviate the hyperplasia of glomerular MCs in MsPGN mice via affecting the cell cycle and proliferation of MCs, thus being a potential therapeutic target for MsPGN.

Paeoniflorin reduces the inflammatory response of THP-1 cells by up-regulating microRNA-124 : Paeoniflorin reduces the inflammatory response of THP-1 cells through microRNA-124

BACKGROUND

The activation of macrophages and the release of inflammatory cytokines are the main reasons for the progress of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). MicroRNA (miRNA)-124 is involved in the regulation of macrophages and is a key regulator of inflammation and immunity.

OBJECTIVE

To explore whether paeoniflorin (PF) regulates the biological functions of macrophages depends on miR-124.

METHODS

RT-PCR, WB, ELISA, CCK-8 and flow cytometry were used to evaluate that PF regulated the biological functions of THP-1 cells through miR-124.

RESULTS

PF significantly inhibited the proliferation while promotes the apoptosis of THP-1 cells, and inhibited the release of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1βin THP-1 cells. RT-PCR results shown that PF up-regulated the expression of miR-124 in THP-1 cells. Functional recovery experiments showed that compared with the LPS + mimic-NC group, LPS + miR-124 mimic significantly inhibited the proliferation and the release of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β, but promoted the apoptosis of THP-1 cells. In addition, compared with the LPS + PF + inhibitor-NC group, LPS + PF + miR-124 inhibitor significantly promoted the proliferation and the release of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β, but inhibited the apoptosis of THP-1 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

By down-regulating miR-124, PF inhibits the proliferation and inflammation of THP-1 cells, and promotes the apoptosis of THP-1 cells.

Mechanisms and Efficacy of Chinese Herbal Medicines in Chronic Kidney Disease

As the current treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is limited, it is necessary to seek more effective and safer treatment methods, such as Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs). In order to clarify the modern theoretical basis and molecular mechanisms of CHMs, we reviewed the knowledge based on publications in peer-reviewed English-language journals, focusing on the anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-apoptotic, autophagy-mediated and antifibrotic effects of CHMs commonly used in kidney disease. We also discussed recently published clinical trials and meta-analyses in this field. Based on recent studies regarding the mechanisms of kidney disease in vivo and in vitro, CHMs have anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-apoptotic, autophagy-mediated, and antifibrotic effects. Several well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses demonstrated that the use of CHMs as an adjuvant to conventional medicines may benefit patients with CKD. Unknown active ingredients, low quality and small sample sizes of some clinical trials, and the safety of CHMs have restricted the development of CHMs. CHMs is a potential method in the treatment of CKD. Further study on the mechanism and well-conducted RCTs are urgently needed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CHMs.

Paeoniflorin ameliorates murine lupus nephritis by increasing CD4+Foxp3+ Treg cells via enhancing mTNFα-TNFR2 pathway

Treg cells are essential for re-establishing self-tolerance in lupus. However, given that direct Treg therapies may be inadequate to control autoimmunity and inflammation, a strategy of inducing or expanding endogenous Treg cells in vivo may be a good option. Macrophages are main tissue-infiltrating cells and play a role in promoting Treg differentiation while paeoniflorin (PF), a monoterpene glycoside, exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects. Here, we studied the effects of PF on CD4⁺FoxP3⁺ Treg frequency and the potential mechanisms involving M2 macrophages. We demonstrated that PF ameliorated lupus nephritis in lupus-prone B6/gld mice by reducing urinary protein, serum creatinine and anti-dsDNA levels, diminishing renal cellular infiltration, improving renal immunopathology and downregulating renal gene and protein expressions of key cytokines, including IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-12 and IL-23. PF also lowered the percentage of CD44^highCD62L^low effector T cells while augmenting CD4⁺FoxP3⁺ Treg frequency in B6/gld mice. Importantly, PF increased TNFR2 expression on CD4⁺FoxP3⁺ Tregs, but not CD4⁺FoxP3^- T cells, in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, we found that CD206⁺ subset of F4/80⁺CD11b⁺ macrophages expressed a higher level of mTNF-α than their CD206^- counterparts while PF increased mTNF-α expression on CD206⁺ macrophages in vitro and in vivo. In vitro studies showed that mTNF-α⁺ M2 macrophages were more potent in inducing Treg differentiation and proliferation than their mTNF-α^- counterparts, whereas the effects of mTNF-α⁺ M2 macrophages were largely reversed by separation of M2 macrophages using a transwell or TNFR2-blocking Ab in the culture. Finally, PF also promoted in vitro Treg generation induced by M2 macrophages. Thus, we demonstrated that mTNFα-TNFR2 interaction is a new mechanism responsible for Treg differentiation mediated by M2 macrophages. We provided the first evidence that PF may be used to treat lupus nephritis.

Current advances in the nano-delivery of celastrol for treating inflammation-associated diseases

Inflammation is ubiquitous in the body, and uncontrolled inflammation often contributes to various diseases. Celastrol, a compound isolated from a Chinese medicinal herb, holds great potential in treating multiple inflammation-associated diseases. However, its further clinical use is limited by its poor solubility, bioavailability, and high organ toxicity. With the advancement of nanotechnology, the nano-delivery of celastrol can effectively improve its oral bioavailability, maximize its efficacy and minimize its side effects. Here, we summarize the roles of celastrol in the treatment of various inflammation-associated diseases, with a special emphasis on its role in modulating immune cell signaling or non-immune cell signaling within the inflammatory microenvironment, and we highlight the latest advances in nano-delivery strategies for celastrol to treat diseases associated with inflammation.

Functional Metabolomics Analysis Elucidating the Metabolic Biomarker and Key Pathway Change Associated With the Chronic Glomerulonephritis and Revealing Action Mechanism of Rhein

Chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) as the culprit of kidney failure can increase the mortality of critically ill patients and seriously threatens people’s health all over the world. This study using metabolomics strategy is to reveal the potential therapeutic mechanism-related targets to evaluate the effects of rhein (RH) on CGN rats. Changes of serum metabolites and pathways were analyzed by non-targeted metabolomic method based on liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) combined with ingenuity pathway analysis. In addition, the levels of biochemical indicators were also detected. A total of 25 potential biomarkers were identified to express serum metabolic turbulence in CGN animal model, and then 16 biomarkers were regulated by RH trending to the normal states. From metabolite enrichment and pathway analysis, pharmacological activity of RH on CGN were mainly involved in six vital metabolic pathways including phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, phenylalanine metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle), alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism. It suggested CGN treatment with RH, which may be mediated via interference with metabolic pathway such as amino acid metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and TCA cycle to regulating inflammation, oxidation response and immune regulation against CGN. It showed that metabolomics method offer deeply insight into the therapeutic mechanisms of natural product.

Protective role of Astragaloside IV in chronic glomerulonephritis by activating autophagy through PI3K/AKT/AS160 pathway

Astragaloside IV(AS-IV), a saponin purified from Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge.var.mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao, has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. However, the underlying mechanisms in treating chronic glomerular nephritis (CGN) have not been fully understood. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential mechanism of AS-IV on CGN. CGN rats were administrated with AS-IV at 10 mg·kg^-1 ·d^-1 (ASL) and 20 mg·kg^-1 ·d^-1 (ASH). Twenty four hour proteinuria, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and serum creatinine (SCr) were detected. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining were performed to evaluate the kidney lesion. Transmission electron microscope and GFP-RFP-LC3 transfection assay were used to monitor the effect of AS-IV on autophagy. IL-6 and IL-1β were detected. The expression of CyclinD1, PI3K/AKT/AS160 pathway and autophagy related proteins were detected by Western Blot. The results demonstrated that AS-IV improved kidney function, ameliorated kidney lesion, and diminished inflammatory in CGN rats. Further, both in vivo and vitro study demonstrated that AS-IV inhibited the proliferation of mesangial cells. AS-IV further displayed a remarkable effect on inhibiting the activation of PI3K/AKT/AS160 pathway and improved the activation of autophagy in vivo and vitro. These results suggested that AS-IV is a potential therapeutic agent for CGN and merits further investigation.